The Robert and Frances Fullerton Museum of Art (RAFFMA) at Cal State San Bernardino will present “Lingering Presence,” an exhibition featuring ceramics and mixed-media sculptures by Inland Empire artist and CSUSB graduate student Matthew Dickerson, Nov. 12-19. 

The exhibition will be on display in the museum’s Dutton Family Gallery, with an opening reception on Thursday, Nov. 12, from 4-6 p.m., including an artist talk at 5:30 p.m. The exhibition and reception are free and open to the public.

Drawing from personal experiences, Dickerson explores internal struggles, personal demons and societal pressures through sculptures that feature strange yet familiar creatures. His work examines how individuals confront their inner darkness and how traces of those experiences can remain even after struggles have been overcome.

In “Lingering Presence,” sculptures that appear to ooze, twist or become impaled serve as metaphors for internal conflict. Ceramic tiles bearing the artist’s likeness are surrounded by writhing creatures and pins of varying sizes, symbolizing attempts to confront harmful expectations surrounding masculinity and society.

An Inland Empire-based artist, Dickerson works primarily in ceramics, sculpture and printmaking. He earned his bachelor of arts degree from CSUSB and is currently pursuing a master of fine arts degree at the university. His work has been exhibited at RAFFMA, Clay Arts Vegas, Brea Gallery, Division 9 Gallery, the American Museum of Ceramic Art and other galleries throughout Southern California.

About RAFFMA

The Robert and Frances Fullerton Museum of Art (RAFFMA), nationally accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, houses one of the largest displays of ancient Egyptian art in Southern California and maintains significant collections of ceramics and contemporary art. The museum presents 10-12 temporary exhibitions annually and provides CSUSB students with hands-on experience that prepares them for careers in the arts.

Admission is free, with a suggested donation of $3. Parking at CSUSB is $10 per vehicle. Museum hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and the second Saturday of each month, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. The museum is closed Sundays.